Development News for North Bend, Oregon

Community Achievements and Memorial Day Reflections Shared by Council

Councilor Torres highlighted the North Bend girls golf team's first-place win at districts and fifth place at state. Additionally, a multicultural night is scheduled for Thursday at Marshfield High School gym, featuring various cultural clubs. Councilor Slater provided a detailed overview of Memorial Day, emphasizing its significance in commemorating fallen US service members across various conflicts, including the Revolutionary War, Korean War, Vietnam War, World War I, World War II, and the Civil War, noting the immense human cost and sacrifice for freedoms. Councilor Hamilton expressed appreciation for North Bend's laid-back community atmosphere after visiting a larger Oregon city. Councilor Hamilton also lauded the teamwork and collaboration within the wastewater department, particularly mentioning Joe's mentorship. The council also commended the budget committee's presentation and the cross-departmental collaboration observed at Chief Mittz's retirement ceremony. Mayor Engle, recovering from laryngitis, thanked volunteers and noted the expiration of the pool levy, urging discussion on future pool operations and funding due to significant annual operating deficits. She also mentioned the community's tradition of celebrating the band's return from state competitions.

North Bend Council Reviews Public Safety Fee Implementation, Identifies Billing Discrepancies

The council reviewed the implementation of the public safety fee ordinance. Due to an audit revealing that the current ordinance's wording regarding 'per unit' was not consistently applied and was interpreted as 'per meter' in practice, the city identified locations that should have been charged more. This audit was prompted by a citizen's comment and subsequent internal review. The discussion focused on the discrepancies in billing, particularly for businesses with multiple units or structures, and potential interpretations of 'occupied unit.' Examples highlighted include Inland Point, which could see a significant increase in its monthly fee, and Eagle's Nest. Strategies for handling hotels, such as using the STAR report for occupancy rates, were discussed. The council also considered challenges with defining 'unit' for businesses like mini-storage and group homes. Staff plans to send out letters by the end of the month for a July 1st implementation, aiming for equitable application of the fee, which is set to increase by $5 to $20.

Resident Alleges Police Misconduct and Demands Accountability

During public comment, a resident voiced serious allegations against members of the Lur County Sheriff's Department and North Bend Police Department. The resident specifically named Christopher Gil and Benjamin Martin, alleging assault and abuse of power, and mentioned Marissa Lucas being in prison after being assaulted by Gil. The resident also questioned the continued employment of Benjamin Martin and the accountability of City Administrator David Miller and others, citing personal experiences and pending lawsuits. Concerns were raised about the use of Flock cameras and potential violations of Fourth Amendment rights. The resident called for accountability for named individuals and a review of camera policies.

North Bend Prepares for 2027 Oregon Main Street Conference, Appoints New Police Chief

The city celebrated the retirement of Chief of Police Cal Mittz and the appointment of Ed Perry as the new Chief of Police. New visitor center letters have been installed. Representatives from the Oregon Main Street program and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department visited to plan for the 2027 Oregon Main Street Conference, which North Bend will host. The city received accolades for its preparedness and collaborative efforts from department heads and the Main Street program team. A tour of participating facilities, including the Liberty Theater, was conducted. The city administrator's report, detailing these and other department activities, is available on the city's website.